Child marriage occurs when one or both spouses are below the age of 18. While boys can be affected, the issue primarily impacts girls. Studies have revealed a direct correlation between early marriages and low levels of education. In 2012 and 2013, 53.7% of married girls between the ages of 15 and 19 years never went to school. It also impacts other areas of development, often leading to poverty, poor health, vulnerability to HIV/AIDS, and maternal/infant mortality.

We need to reach politicians, parents, and youth through campaigning and lobbying for proper legislation by creating awareness through media and seminars. In addition, we’ll provide legal and social assistance to those affected by child marriage. AWAS is leading this campaign along with Idara-e-Taleem-o-Aagahi (ITA), and partners such as Rutgers WPF, HANDS and other members of the Alliance Against Child Marriage in Pakistan.